Overview
- Paris Saint-Germain retained the Champions League title after a penalty shootout win over Arsenal that was decided when Gabriel Magalhaes missed the decisive spot-kick.
- After Gabriel’s miss, PSG captain Marquinhos ran to the Arsenal defender on the pitch and stayed to comfort him instead of immediately joining celebrations.
- Marquinhos told reporters that Gabriel sent him a message the day after the final to thank him for the hug, support and words he offered in Budapest.
- Marquinhos said his reaction was shaped by his own 2022 World Cup shootout experience and that he told Gabriel to stay strong, calling him the best centre-back in the world this season.
- Both players have joined Brazil’s squad for the 2026 World Cup, and coverage has shifted to their mental recovery, their expected partnership in defence, and how the episode may affect Gabriel’s confidence and public reputation.